Cheers to almost-Friday, friends, and the weekend ahead! I’m in New York until Saturday (you can get a peek of what we’re up to on my Instagram Story), so I’m bringing you the latest round of Dressing Room Diaries a day early!
You know the drill with Dressing Room Diaries…I hunt down some of the cutest items from my favorite retailers, and review them for you. As usual, the shots aren’t good, the lighting is bad, and I’m in desperate need of a hairbrush. Many of the items aren’t a good fit for me…but it’s real life, real girl, real clothes…and hopefully helpful for you to see them this way, instead of perfectly styled on a model. So let’s get started!
Fit Note: I’m 5’4″-ish, 120 pounds-ish (depending on the week’s taco count), with a slight pear shape. Mama Sugarplum is 5’1″, with an hourglass figure. Our usual size is XS/0.
My blush pink obsession continues this Fall, with this super-soft v-neck pullover. It’s a bit thicker than the other v-neck I love so much, and comes in more color options. This one also has a ribbed trim at the neck, giving it a slightly more refined style. The only downside is the forearms are a little tight. Maybe I have Popeye’s arms, but I noticed the tightness right away. The good news is, after wearing it around for awhile, it totally stretched out.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS…perhaps sizing up would alleviate the whole arm issue, but that might require a cami.
V-Neck Pullover | Distressed Jeans | Cognac Booties
This tee is a similar color, but more on the lilac side. I own it in black already, and wear it with jeans and workout leggings. It’s a fun twist on a basic tee #punny, and comes in tons of great colors.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, which falls at the perfect spot in front, and fully covers my bum in the back.
Twist-Front Tee | Distressed Jeans | Cognac Booties
You thought I was kidding with the blush pink, didn’t you? I’m nothing if not dedicated! This is last year’s favorite peacoat, but in a new fresh color. I’m so smitten and can’t wait for the temps to drop!! It’s surprisingly well-made and high-quality given the $38 (!!!) price tag…it’s not wonder I now have it in three colors. Seriously, grab it now and thank me later!!
Fit Tip: Last year’s coat ran really small, and I had to size up two. This one is a little closer to true-to-size, but I’d still size up one to allow room for layering over sweaters, etc.
Peacoat | Striped Mockneck Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Cognac Booties
Let’s give the pink a break, and move on more great Fall colors, like this mossy green. The cardigan has a chic shawl collar, ribbing at the arms, and a great length. It’s a more traditional sweater material, but still soft enough to wear over a tee or tank.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing regular XS.
Shawl Collar Cardigan | Distressed Jeans
This sleeveless cardigan fits oversized and drapes easily. It has an asymmetric hem, and fully covers the bum in the back. I love it layered over stripes, obviously. These long-sleeve tees are soft, thick cotton and great layering pieces.
Fit Tip: My store only had size large, but I really wanted to try this sleeveless style…so your standard size won’t fit this long.
Sleeveless Draped Cardigan | Striped Tee | Raw Hem Jeans | Sandals
I’ve shown you this sweater several times over the years (see it styled 3 Ways here), but I couldn’t resist trying the stripes. It’d be so cute layered over a long tee or collared shirt, but the cashmere makes it soft enough to wear alone. And considering it’s cashmere under $100, it makes a great gift, too.
Fit Tip: I sized down to an XXS for a shorter fit, but also have it in XS.
Striped Cashmere Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Taupe Booties
I love the colors of this lightweight sweater, but didn’t love the feel of the material. It’s also on the thin side, making it hard to wear a layer underneath.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS.
Color blocked Sweater | Distressed Jeans
OHMYGOSH, this is slightly embarrassing! I had no idea I was so fixated on pink this season until seeing it all in one spot! Clearly it’s the color option I’ve been reaching for most…especially since this sweater is available in multiple colors! This cotton sweater is a classic with the rolled neck and wide cuffs. It’s thick and soft, and can be worn alone or layered. I love the length, too.
Fit Tip: I sized up to a small for a more relaxed fit.
Roll Collar Cotton Sweater | Raw Hem Jeans
It’s difficult to see all the fun details of this sweater, but it has a foldover turtleneck, ruffle trim on the front and back, and gold zippers at the wrist. It’s made of a thick, stretchy merino, and easily dresses up or down. Because of the ruffle placement, though, I wouldn’t recommend this one for busty gals.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, which is a good fit for dressing up. If you plan to wear it mostly casual, I’d recommend sizing up.
Ruffle Turtleneck | Raw Hem Jeans
Fancy sweatshirts are all the rage this season, and I’m not complaining! This one has a terrycloth lining and fun gold polka-dots, and looks cute alone, layered over a shirt, and under a vest! These quilted vests are great when you want the layer, but not necessarily any additional bulk. They are fairly thin and lightweight, and come in a slew of colors.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in both, and they are generous in size.
Polka-Dot Sweatshirt | Puffer Vest | Raw Hem Jeans | Sandals
I shared this jersey knit swing dress with you last week (a total keeper!), and it transitions to cooler weather so well with a puffer vest. This one is thicker with a stand-up collar, and also available in tons of color…I’m kind of partial to the camo!
Fit Tip: Both are true to size, I’m wearing XS.
Striped Swing Dress | Camo Vest | Sandals
I was shocked this moto jacket was faux leather! It’s very luxe with a flattering feminine fit, making it perfect for either jeans or dressier styles. The striped top has short-sleeves, a drapey fit, and fun zipper detail.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS in both.
Zip-Up Blouse | Faux Leather Moto Jacket | Distressed Jeans | Sandals
This pullover has an unexpected poplin inset on the back, giving it an easy, flirty look. The sweater is a fine gauge cotton-blend, and the plaid ruffle is crisp cotton poplin. I liked the idea of the top, but didn’t like the length of the front on my long torso.
Fit Tip: I’m in an XS.
Sweater | White Jeans | Taupe Booties
It was much cuter on mom’s petite frame, so if you’re taller than 5’3″, you may want to size up for more length. Bonus: it’s on sale!
Plaid Peplum Top | White Jeans | Taupe Booties | Sweater | Mid-Rise Jeans | Booties
Smocking across the chest, peplum hem and bell sleeves…there’s definitely a lot going on with this top! But also a lot of fun, especially for the sale price! It’s a soft, airy cotton, and comes in this navy plaid, plus a fresh red and white option, too.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS
Smocked Plaid Top | White Jeans | Peep Toe Booties
I love the rows of pleated ruffles on this top! The material is lightweight and papery-thin, but still completely opaque. It has a slightly cropped fit, making it a good style for high-rise denim and pencil skirts. It would be fun layered under a blazer, as well.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS
I wouldn’t necessarily wear this cami alone, but I wanted to show you the the lace and velvet detail. It would be so lovely under a blazer, and dresses up a chunky cardigan. The black jeans are my favorite-fit with a mid-rise, good stretch, and super-dark rinse. I’m actually working on a Five Ways around them for next month!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in the cami, and the jeans are true to size.
Velvet & Lace Camisole | Black Jeans
I tried to recruit Mama Sugarplum on the camo-train, but she’s not a fan. Not because of age, just her particular taste. These pants have a comfy high-rise and slim leg, and look darn cute with our fave peplum tees!
Fit Tip: We’re wearing XS tees and size 2 pants.
Peplum Tee | Camo Jeans | Taupe Booties | Booties
Moving on to some dressier styles, let’s talk leopard cuteness!! I got to spend the day filming videos with my friends at JCPenney this week, but first they set me free in a store to find my wardrobe…which of course, included this pencil skirt and chambray combo. The skirt feels a bit like micro-suede, and is fully-lined, and the shirt is super-soft, lightweight cotton.
Fit Tip: Given the short time-frame, I had to grab whatever skirt was in-stock, and we pinned it for filming. So I’m not completely sure on sizing, but everything else I’ve tried has been pretty true. I loved the skirt so much I’m having it altered!
Chambray Shirt | Leopard Pencil Skirt | Sandals
This dress was my other outfit for filming, and it’s adorable! There’s a bit of a sheen to the material, making it perfect for the holiday season, and the muted print pairs well with cardigans or a jean jacket. The belt is optional, and the dress is fully-lined.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 4, but it needed to be pinned, so I’d say it’s true to size.
This pleated skirt is so fun and flowy, and the shade is just right for Fall. It’s a pull-on style with elastic waist, and fully-lined. I’d pair it with a light blouse and flats.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.
Another pleated option, this one more of a midi length, which easily transitions from work to party time! It’s pull-on style with an elastic waist, and fully-lined. It looks really tailored (especially for the price), but moves well when you walk.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, and it fits well at my natural waist.
Plaid Shirt (on sale!) | Pleated Midi Skirt | Pumps
Okay, not sure where (or if) I’d actually wear this romper, but it was too unique not to try it out! The romper part is thick and stretchy, with an attached lace overlay. The bottom forms a long skirt with deep side slits, and the sleeves have a slight bell shape. It would be stunning with heels and statement jewelry, but probably better-suited for taller girls.
Fit Tip: I sized up to a small, but I think my usual XS would have fit…so it’s true to size.
My other favorite color this season is oxblood (formerly knowing as burgundy), and this dress would be lovely for Fall weddings or holiday season. The shoulder and waist are elastic for a comfy fit, and it shows just enough skin for sass.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS
One-Shoulder Asymmetrical Dress | Nude Sandals
And finally, I’m ending this DRD with a dress I’m confident looks good on just about everyone. I’m serious!! It has a magic way of disguising problem areas through the middle, and stretching to a custom fit. I’ve seen it looking stunning on petites, fuller-figures, and even extremely pregnant girls! I grabbed the gray one several years ago, and recently added this black one for evenings out. It’s a soft thick cotton, with a lot of stretch.
Fit Tip: I sized up one for a less body-con fit…I’m wearing a small.
Okay, I think that’s enough for today! I do hope you found this post helpful, and maybe discovered some new goodies. What’s your favorite from this round of Dressing Room Diaries? Be sure to check my last one for tons more Fall transitional pieces! Happy weekend, lovebugs!
{Shop our Dressing Room Faves}
Great Weekend Sales
Nordstrom // Huge seasonal clearance + triple points(!!!)…including this sweatshirt & my fave peacoat.
Loft // 40% off tops & sweaters
GAP // Up to 50% off everything + extra 20% off with code ALLGOOD
Old Navy // 35% off everything (Go ahead & grab this jacket!)
J.Crew // 30% off total order with code SHOPFAST
J.Crew Factory // 40% off new arrivals (I’m looking at you plaid!)
I love your v-neck pullover and your peacoat. Maybe it’s because they’re both in that gorgeous shade of soft pink!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
I don’t know what it is about that pinky lilac color-everyone looks good in it!
You need your heartbeat necklace for so many of these looks.
The navy (black too) down vest is a keeper. Looks great in so many ways. Classic forever look.
Yay, Cassie!
I hope you have the BEST time in NYC!!
I love the pleated tank on you! Just adorable. : ) Have fun in NYC!
I have that sleeveless cardigan and I can’t wait for it to cool down so I can wear it. Love it with the striped top, I might have a “few” of them! I can’t believe that leopard skirt is only $!7!! Enjoy your time in NYC!
So many great pieces! Looking forward to hearing about your NY trip.
Sydnee | Design by Sydnee
Yes, have so much fun in NYC!
I liked the leopard skirt
! I’ve been so tempted to try that last dress, but I think I might not be the right age for it. But it looks so cute on you!
I love the pink sweater and polka dot sweatshirt! Thanks for all of the fashion inspiration!
I have that blush sweater in blush and grey, and I love it!!!! My pink coat order got cancelled. WHAH!!!!!!!!
You know how married couples, after being together for a long time, can finish each other’s sentences? Well after reading your blog and gathering inspiration from you for several years My “Cassie senses” are getting really good! I went to our local Canadian Nordstrom yesterday and bought that soft cozy BP pullover! As I was trying it on, I thought, “oh my gosh this is the softest coziest things ever, I need to tell Cassie about it!”. I also bought my first pair of Articles of Soceity jeans, and I am a smitten kitten! Then it wasn’t on to Old Navy where I was meant to buy some stuff for my kids, but several items were too good to resist for myself- the same gold polka dot sweatshirt and a moss green cardigan!
Have a great time in NYC, can’t wait to hear about it and see your pics!
I love this so much!! I’m thrilled you find inspiration here, and sounds like you scored some great stuff!! xoxox
Love everything you choose! Adorable with your Mom too!
Where are the hoop colored earrings from?
Thanks again for the inspiration 🙂 Have fun in NYC
Hi Jenny!! Here’s the link to my earrings…I have the ‘rainbow’ option: http://bit.ly/2pv3zzr
Loved shopping your selection for Fall. Ended up with the moto jacket and a few goodies from Old Navy (including holiday shirts for my boys). Thank you for being my very own personal shopper! Makes this busy mama’s life SO MUCH SIMPLER!
Hey Cassie, you are in my backyard! I live on Long Island. I love the smocked plaid top and wore an outfit just like the chambray/animal print skirt today. Enjoy your trip.
Love all the pink and blush- that coat is so cute! Also loving the polka-dot sweater from Old Navy. It’s nice to mix things up with some shimmer and polka dots every once in a while. Great finds!
So I have to ask your expertise – I got the blush pink coat and I LOVE the color! However I am not loving the stiffness of the material, and it also has a bit of a “squeak” to it. Did the material soften with washing or over time? Trying to figure out if I am going to keep it or not!
Mine definitely softened after a few wears, but I actually prefer that it keeps its shape! As for the squeaking, I’m not sure about that!!?? I’ve not experienced it with any of my coats…but I guess at $40, there are a few quirks! 😉
Cassie – I need your help with a handbag! I am headed to NYC in November to celebrate a big birthday and want a super cute tote to dress up my outfits, but one that is easy to wear over a shoulder or arm. You seem to like Barrington totes? Which size would you recommend for something everyday?
Thank you! Can’t tell you how much I appreciate your Dressing Room Diaries. I’ve bought at least a handful of items because of your recommendations! 🙂
New York in November….sounds amazing!!! I love a cross body bag for traveling, that way I can be hands-free for exploring and eating! For actual travel (and almost everyday), I always carry a Barrington bag. The Savannah is my fave bc it zips closed, has lots in side compartments, and will fit my laptop without being overly huge! The St. Anne is good if you prefer something bigger, but that one is harder for me to carry everyday. I hope this helps, and have a great trip! xo
I absolutely loved the gold polka dot sweatshirt with the navy vest, so I had to run out on lunch and buy them. 🙃 The printed sweatshirts are currently 30% off and the vest was only $25. Score! Thanks for the inspo!